Châteaux, Rivers, and Wine A River Cruise in Aquitaine September 18-26, 2020

Join your friends from New England Church and Viking River Cruises as we discover the ports, vineyards, farms and forests of Aquitaine, once ’s richest kingdom. See ’s fountains and cellars. Hear about the importance of truffles in Périgord, then taste them in a home-cooked meal. Optional tours offer you an opportunity to create your own personal blend of Cognac at the Camus distillery or sa- vor France’s finest oysters fresh from the bay at . Sip Saint-Émilion, Médoc and Sauternes in their own terroir on a 7-day cruise through Bordeaux—a region synonymous with fine wine and finer liv- ing. Friday, September 18 — Chicago We board the coach to O’Hare to fly to Bordeaux.

Saturday, September 19—Bordeaux We are met at the airport and taken to our ship. The rest of the day is ours to relax or explore Bordeaux on our own. Second only to Paris in French historic monuments, Bordeaux’s thoughtfully preserved 18th-century urban areas make it a desirable film location, and its graceful port on the River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later this evening, we may want to join an escorted evening walk of Bordeaux. While its monuments are beautiful during the day, they are stunning at night. (D)

Sunday, September 20 — Bordeaux

We tour the city center this morning and see some of Bordeaux’s highlights, listed below. Later this afternoon, we sail upstream along the Garonne River to Cadillac, a small town with a towering castle that gave its name to the American car brand. (B, L, D)

Included tour: Panoramic Bordeaux—world’s largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour the capital of the namesake wine-growing region that, Paris, boasts more protected buildings than any other French city. You will meet your guide for a short transfer to the city center. Here, marvel at the expanse of the Place des Quinconces, one of the largest squares in Europe, with its array of majestic sculptures and fountains. Then, view the neoclassical Grand Theâtre de Bor- deaux; the 18th-century masterwork is distinguished by its 12 Corinthian col- umns and is home to the national opera. You will also admire the beautiful Place de la Bourse, where the world’s largest reflecting pool, the Miroir d’Eau or Water Mirror, spreads out like glass amid stately buildings. You will also see several spectacular churches along the way and visit the Musée d’Aquitaine. Here, you will enjoy a guided tour of the collections highlighting the region’s triangular trade route and Bordeaux’s position in it.

Monday, September 21— Cadillac We begin our day with a walking tour of Cadillac and then head across the river for our excursion to Sauternes. Here pic- turesque landscapes of vineyards blanket the countryside hills; we’ll visit a château to learn how their prized wines are made. Enjoy a tasting before returning to your ship. (B, L, D)

Included tour: Cadillac—quaint riverside town and lush vineyards of Sauternes Discover the charming town of Cadillac and sample some of France’s sweetest wines in the town that produces them. Begin your tour with a leisurely stroll around one of France’s most picturesque towns; this riverside gem’s sole pur- pose was to protect Bordeaux from vessels coming downriver. Join your guide as you explore its heart, passing through the Sea Gate, with its crenellated crown, and Clock Gate, named for the colorful timekeeper near its top. Continue past Saint Blaise collegiate church and conclude your walk at the castle, one of the first examples of French-style architecture. Next, you will drive across the Ga- ronne River to Sauternes, where vineyards blanket the countryside. Thomas Jef- ferson himself, America’s third president, counted Sauternes among his favorite wines during his visits. Visit a château to learn how these prized wines are made, where you may be invited to work in the vineyard if you would like. Complete your visit with a tasting. Tuesday, September 22 — We will disembark this morning for a leisurely stroll to Libourne’s picturesque city square, lined with buildings dating as far back as the 16th century; or take part in one of two optional excursions: an exploration of the Bergerac area in the to learn more about truf- fles, a great French delicacy; or a wine tasting, at a nearby château, of some local vintages from the Saint-Émilion and appellations. Later this afternoon, take a tour to Saint- Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you see the town’s superb medieval lanes and delightful views of the surrounding vineyards from the upper town. Spend a pleasant afternoon exploring the town’s streets and shops. (B, L, D)

Included tour: Libourne—founded by England, claimed by France Get to know this fascinating town where the Dordogne and Rivers meet. This idyllic French town was founded and developed by the English in 1270 and named for its founder, a nobleman tasked with colonizing and defending the countryside. As a result, Libourne has the layout of the fortified towns typical of the era. Some remnants of the city walls remain today. You will join your guide for a walk to the Place Abel Surchamp, the city square lined with buildings dating to the 16th century. You will see its Gothic church with its stone spire rising 232 feet. At the quay, admire the clock tower, a survivor from the original walls. Its floor, which projects out past the wall, allowed defenders to toss stones on enemies trying to scale the exterior. If the town’s schedule allows, you can browse its fresh food market, one of the region’s largest.

Included tour: Saint-Emilion—hillside village and wine-making center Saint-Émilion is one of Aquitaine’s must-see wine-growing towns, an open air museum where it is easy to feel as though you have stepped back in time. Join your guide for a short drive to the hillside medieval village, perched on a lime- stone plateau overlooking vast parcels of vineyards. The town was founded by a modest Breton hermit in the 8th century and grew into a monastic center for many who followed. For centuries, life here has evolved around harvesting grapes and winemaking, and Saint-Émilion has the honor of being the first vineyard re- gion declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. During your tour, savor the old-world atmosphere, learn about the underground monuments that grew up around the hermitage and enjoy free time to stroll the narrow cobblestone streets and linger in some of the area’s many shops and cafés before returning to the ship.

Optional Tour (additional cost): Underground heritage of a World-Famous Wine Region Stroll around Libourne’s market, visit the historic Saint-Émilion wine region and enjoy a tasting at a château. Your guide will walk you around the open air and covered market, and explain its importance to local heritage. Then, enjoy free time to wan- der the stalls and savor tasty morsels of delicious offerings, such as cheese and salami. Next, discover the underground herit- age of historic Saint-Émilion and several hundred years of history as you explore its great monuments. Pass the Monolithic Church, mysterious catacombs, Trinity Chapel and Hermitage. Lunch is awaiting at a local restaurant, where you will enjoy a delicious three-course offering. Continue your journey with a scenic drive to Château Siaurac. Walk through its maze of vineyards on a tour and learn about the various grape vari- eties grown, how the soil is nurtured and the efforts employed to maintain a vineyard. After, you will visit the wine cellar and enjoy a tasting before return- ing to your ship.

Wednesday, September 23— Bourg & Enjoy a leisurely morning in Bourg as you take a stroll through the historic village. Or, you may choose to take an optional excursion to the charming medieval town of Cognac, birthplace of one of the world’s best-known types of brandy. Here, you take a tour of the Camus fam- ily business, one of the most tradition-steeped Cognac houses in the area, and try your hand at blending. During lunch, your ship sets sail for Blaye. This afternoon, take a guided tour of the extraordinary 17th-century citadel, dramatically set on a rock beside the river. The citadel of Blaye, its city walls and two other forts are collectively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B, L, D)

Included tour: One of King Louis XIV’s Most Important Fortresses Explore the scenic citadel complex along the banks of the estuary, a grand fortress built on the orders of Louis XIV. Meet your guide and take a short drive from Bourg to Blaye; you will then head to the extraordinary 17th-century citadel, dramatically set on a rock beside the river. Within its walls, you can admire the ruins of an ancient Gothic château. Still today, the château contains the tomb of Charibert II, King of Aquitaine, and legend has it that the Frankish hero Roland, who served Charlemagne, is also buried there. During your tour, you will have time to take in its beautiful setting on the estuary. The citadel of Blaye and the nearby forts of Paté and Médoc are collectively listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free time in Blaye before returning to your ship.

Optional tour: (additional cost) Witness The Blending of a Prized Brandy Walk through the historic town of Blaye and learn the history of Cognac during a Privileged Access visit to a distillery. Blaye rests on the Gironde River and boasts an extraordinary 17th-century citadel. Within its walls, explore ancient ruins and take in its beautiful setting. Next, drive with your guide through the scenic countryside to the town of Cognac and Camus, where a historic distillery awaits. Enjoy a three- course lunch with wine followed by a private tour. Learn about the wine-growing family that has owned the business for five generations, and see the great oaken bar- rels where different Cognacs are aged to perfection. Join a master blender in a work- shop, where you can learn the secrets of Cognac blending under his watchful eye. Then try creating your own personal blend and have your own “brand” inscribed in Camus’s record books. You will be able to take home a bottle of your own blend as a souvenir of your memorable visit.

Thursday, September 24 — Relax on board your ship this morning as we sail downstream, passing islands and gentle slopes, arriving in Pauillac in the ear- ly afternoon. Enjoy a wine country tour and tasting, including the area’s famous full-flavored Margaux. This evening, travel through the rolling vineyard-laced hills to dinner at a château, accompanied by the château’s own wines. (B, L, D) Included tour: The Medoc’s Natural Beauty, Wine, and Food Sample some of France’s best wines in the Margaux appellation, starting at a stately château and continuing with a special din- ner at the elegant Château Kirwan, whose wine was classified as a prestigious Third Growth in the Official Classification of 1855. You will join your guide for a scenic drive through the Médoc region through gently rolling hills. Many thousands of acres of vineyards blanket the sea-kissed landscape. On this Gironde es- tuary peninsula, the sandy and gravelly terroir is supremely suited to viticulture. You will stop at one of the region’s most respected châ- teaux to tour the cellars and enjoy a wine tasting, learn- ing about the distinct qualities of Margaux’s Merlots and cabernet francs. Then, continue to the Château Kirwan, resting on 99 acres of vineyards that produce stellar red wines. Here, you will savor a carefully pre- pared meal, accompanied by the château’s own wines, of course. Friday, September 25 — Bordeaux Enjoy a final morning of cruising as we make our way back to Bordeaux. You have the afternoon at leisure, giving you more time to appreciate the well-preserved architecture of Jacques Ange Gabriel and son, and to taste the city’s cuisine and wine appellations. Per- haps pick up a few bottles to take home with you. Alternatively, you may choose from a number of optional excursions. Take a full-day tour to Arcachon, a commune on the At- lantic coast. Enjoy a boat ride along the estuary to Cap Ferret, and taste the oysters, a local delicacy. Perhaps learn how wine barrels are made and enjoy the vintage aged within them on an insightful excursion. Or, participate in a market visit with the Viking Chef to see where the local chefs of Bordeaux find their fruit, vegetables, meats and fish. (B, L, D)

Optional Tour: (additional cost) Sample Oysters Plucked Fresh From the Water Travel to the Atlantic coast and the elegant resort town of Arcachon to experience the daily life of an oyster farmer. Join your guide for a scenic drive to Arcachon, lo- cated on the eponymous sheltered bay. Upon arrival, you will find yourself transport- ed to the Belle Époque era, surrounded by the red roofs of Victorian-era villas and fishing boats bobbing on the water. At the pier, embark a vessel and take a short cruise into open water to an oyster farm, where you will learn about farming tech- niques, cultivation and the varieties of mollusks. You can inspect the fascinating oys- ter banks and sample the day’s catch in the oysters’ purest and freshest state. Contin- ue by boat to your lunch destination, the fashionable headlands of Cap Ferret. After your fresh-from-the-sea meal, you will return to the picturesque town of Arcachon and drive back to your ship in Bordeaux.

Optional Tour: (additional cost) Visit the Colorful Marketplace With the Onboard Chef Accompany our onboard chef on a shopping excursion, experiencing France’s unique market culture for yourself. Depart your ship in Pauil- lac and drive to Bordeaux’s covered market of Le Marche des Capucins, south of the Old City. The best cooks of Bordeaux shop here for fruit, vegetables, meats and fish. You will soon learn that there is no more enticing and rewarding way to experience a French market than with a Viking chef. Tour the stalls alongside him and engage with local vendors during your culinary journey, as he describes the ingredi- ents and translates conversations with locals for you. Soak up the atmos- phere of this bustling central market, as you pause to sample specialties such as cheese, olives, cold cuts and local oysters. Then return to your ship, which will be waiting for you in Bordeaux.

Optional Tour: (additional cost) A Visit to French Coopers and Winemakers Learn how wine barrels are made and enjoy the vintage in which they are aged on this insightful excursion. Drive with your guide from your ship in Pauillac to Ludon-Médoc, home to the barrel maker, La Nadalié. Here, you will enjoy a guided tour of the factory and see how wood slats are shaped into casks designed to age fine Bordeaux wines. Continue to Château Palou- mey. Though the house has been here since the early 1800s, the phylloxera crisis and the war shut the vineyard down. In 1989, Martine Cazeneuve restored the 84 acres back to life. You will sample the results during a tour of the cellars and a tasting. Con- tinue to Château Léoville-Poyferre. Its locale on the lets it take ad- vantage of the pebbly earth that regulates soil temperature. Tour its cellars and sip its wines with artisanal cheese. You will meet your ship in Bordeaux.

Saturday, September 26—Chicago After a final onboard breakfast, disembark and we take you to the airport for your flight home.* Or, extend your journey with three nights in Paris. (B) Bordeaux Bordeaux is the center of the Bordeaux Métropole, being the nineth largest city in France. It is the capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It is the world's major wine industry capital, and home to the world's main wine fair, Vinexpo. Bordeaux wine has been produced in the region since the 8th century. The historic part of the city is on the UNESCO World Heritage List as "an out- standing urban and architectural ensemble" of the 18th century. After Paris, Bordeaux has the highest number of preserved historical buildings of any city in France.

Cadillac Built in the 13th century as a walled city, the town of Cadillac was built to defend Bordeaux's main trade routes. Today, part of the town's wall still survives, attracting visitors to the area. Most impressive is the castle, which stands at the center of Cadillac. The 17th century Château Cadillac features a paved courtyard, wine tasting rooms, and a restored neo-Gothic chapel.

Libourne In 1270, Leybornia was founded as a bastide by Roger de Leybourne, an English seneschal of Gascony, under the authority of King Edward I of England. It suffered considerably in the struggles of the French and English for the possession of Gironde in the 14th century, and joined France in the 15th century. The Gothic church, restored in the 19th century, has a stone spire 232 feet high. On the quay there is a machicolated clock-tower which is a survival of the defensive walls of the 14th century. The town-house, con- taining a small museum and a library, is a quaint relic of the 16th century. It is located by the main square, the Place Abel Surchamp, which hosts every weekend, one of the largest fresh food market in the region.

Bourg and Blaye Bourg and Blaye in the Aquitaine (Nouvelle Aquitaine as it was renamed in 2016), are synonymous in history and herit- age but each embraces a special legacy, where they walked hand-in-hand through the middle ages. Bourg is a fairytale-looking village, a chateau and fabulous good looks that entice visitors to want to return again and again. Bourg is a hidden gem on the right bank of the Dordogne Riv- er, in the heart of the wine region of Côtes de Bourg, in the Gironde department. It is an ancient commune perched atop a hill and seems largely to have been forgotten by the crowds. Photogenic Bourg reveals a Romanesque beauty in 18th century houses, golden stone facades, and decorative iron balco- nies, enchanting medieval streets and curlicue alleyways that tumble straight down to the water’s edge. At sunset the lime- stone facades reflect rich pink hues. The port plays host to regattas, festivals and the annual salt fair, Foire Troque Sel, commemorating Bourg’s valuable commodity from the middle ages. Blaye is a petite but mighty hamlet whose citadel played an extraordinary role in history, protecting the Gironde estuary and the port of Bordeaux during the 18th and 19th centuries. Even though, Bourg and Blaye may seem off the beaten-path in the Aquitaine region, both are worth a visit to fully enjoy the rich and stunning countryside, abundant vineyards, historical chateaux, and picture-postcard villag- es, along with the wines of Côtes de Bourg.

Pauillac Fronting onto the Gironde estuary, the town of Pauillac consists of some quays along the water frontage, a broad 'boulevard' with a number of cafes just behind, and then the main town going up the hill be- hind that. There are some cafes and shops, and some 19th century houses and shops in the characteristic 'charentais' type style. Places of interest in the town include the large 19th cen- tury Church of Saint-Martin, a 19th century market hall and a substantial monument to those who died in the town following the bombardment of Pauillac during WWII. In the main street as you enter the town from the quay area, Pauillac has a 'museum of automated animals', and you can find an art gallery at L'Atelier Zinc (28 Grande Rue).

POSSIBLE PRE-TRIP TO THE CAVES OF THE PÉRIGORD

We are considering organizing 2-3 nights in the area of the Lascaux caves to visit several of these unique caves with prehistoric paintings and beautiful scenery. Cost and dates are to be determined. Please indicate your interest on the registration form. This would not be connected to the Viking cruise, but rather organized by Gary & Judy as our own pre-trip excursion.

VIKING PRE-TRIP EXTENSION: LOIRE VALLEY September 15—19, 2020 $1,250 Enjoy three additional days in France exploring the châteaux of the Loire Valley with guided tours of the region’s most spectacu- lar cities, estates and cathedrals, including Orléans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Included: •3 nights accommodations: 1 night in Paris—Le Méridien Etoile, Paris (or similar); 2 nights in Tours— Clarion Château Belmont Tours (or similar) •4 meals: 3 breakfasts & 1 dinner •5 guided tours: Château de Chambord & Château Chenonceau visits plus guided tours of Orléans, Tours & Poitiers •Fully escorted by your Viking Tour Director •Hotel & ship transfers For detailed itinerary, please go to www.vikingrivercruises.com, click on France cruise Cha- teaux, Rivers, and Wine, and at the bottom click on the link for the pre-cruise extension to the Loire Valley.

VIKING POST-TRIP EXTENSION: PARIS September 26-29, 2020 $1,000

Become enchanted by the romance of France’s capital. Browse the art collections in the Louvre or stroll along the Champs- Élysées. Ascend the Eiffel Tower for a breathtaking view of the “City of Light.” Included: •3 nights in Paris: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris (or similar) •3 breakfasts •Guided City Tour •Services of a Viking host •Hotel & ship transfers

Upgrade Hotels: $1,400 Viking now offers you the opportunity to enhance your Paris stay at The Westin Paris- Vendôme, a Premium Plus Hotel, specifically chosen for its rich history, significant ar- chitecture and genuine hospitality. Your extension’s itinerary and included features re- main the same no matter which hotel you select.

For detailed itinerary, please go to www.vikingrivercruises.com, click on France cruise Chateaux, Rivers, and Wine, and at the bottom click on the link for the post-cruise ex- tension to Paris. VIKING FORSETI FEATURES

 95 comfortable outside staterooms (25 Standard Staterooms, 22 French Balcony Staterooms, 39 Veranda Staterooms, 7 Veranda Suites, 2 Explorer Suites)  All suites feature two full-size rooms with a veranda off the living room & a French balcony in the bedroom  Sun Deck with 360-degree views & shaded sitting area; organic herb garden & solar panels; putting green & walking track  Aquavit Terrace & Lounge, a revolutionary indoor/outdoor viewing area at the bow of the ship for al fresco dining

 Restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic views  Library & onboard shop  Elevator from Middle to Upper Deck only; no elevator access for categories E & F  Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)  Laundry service  Ecologically friendly hybrid engines producing less vibrations for a smoother ride  40" flat-screen Sony TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, National Geographic & more This ship has 95 cabins holding 190 passengers. The diagram below gives you the location of cabin categories.

Veranda Suite: green 275 square feet Veranda A: light blue 205 square feet Veranda B: pink 205 square feet French Balcony C: yellow 135 square feet French Balcony D: teal blue 135 square feet Standard E: dark blue 150 square feet

FORSETI - NORSE GOD OF JUSTICE

The Norse god of justice, Forseti, radiates the light of truth. He is eloquent, wise and, most of all, a fair and persuasive mediator. Forseti presides over all

TRIP COST

Prices below are per-person, double occupancy, including cruise, air, port taxes, all meals on board ship, and transportation to/from the airport from the church. These prices below reflect a savings of $625 from the bro- chure price, and includes the two-for-one cruise price, our group discount, and a current flight promotion. Your deposit of $600 includes a $100 non-refundable administrative fee charged by Viking.

In addition, there is a discount for previous Viking travelers. If you have traveled with Viking within the last year, you may subtract $200 per person from these amounts. If you have traveled with Viking at any time, you may subtract $100 per person. (You can only choose one of these options)

A deposit of $600 per person reserves your cabin. Final payment is due January 5, 2020.

Category AA: $6,975 Category A: $5,475 Category B: $5,275 Category C: $4,975 Category D: $4,775 Category E: $4,475 Category F: $4,375

Air Upgrades: Premium Economy: add $800 per person Business Class: add $3,500 per person

INCLUDED IN THE TOUR

• Roundtrip transportation from New England Church to O’Hare Airport • 7-day cruise/tour • Economy Airfare from O’Hare, Chicago • 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites • 7 included shore excursions with local guide and headset • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner • Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included each day • 24/7 specialty coffees, teas, & bottled water • Riverview stateroom • Room steward & twice-daily housekeeping service • Evening turndown service • Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; luxury linens & pillows • 40” flat-screen LCD TV, with interactive programming • Complimentary Movies On Demand RIVER CRUISING: A BETTER WAY TO EXPLORE

Nothing compares to a river. How else but on a river can you journey into the very heart of the world’s greatest cities and most charming towns, discovering the true nature of the land and its people? Where else but on a river could you be gently carried along on an elegant, intimate ship, docking right in the heart of town, strolling off to begin your exploration? How else but on a river would you travel with such ease, unpacking just once and enjoying the ever-changing scenery along the banks? Comfortable and con- venient, river cruising offers a greater variety of destinations than you can find any other way. Spend less time getting there, and more time being there. Small wonder so many people have fallen in love with this relaxing, immersive and thoroughly enjoyable form of travel.

River cruising offers a uniquely comfortable way to explore new destinations. Unlike a bus tour or driving on your own, you unpack just once and settle into a comfortable home away from home. You get your own room, indulge in meals that are included as part of your fare, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow passengers on an intimately scaled ship. There’s no packing and unpacking, switching hotels, or lugging baggage around. Also, unlike an ocean cruise, there’s an ever-changing mural of breathtaking scenery from your ship, so the journey itself becomes part of your discovery. Because a river has no waves, sea sickness is never a concern. In addition, because each river cruise ship’s scale is limited so it will fit into the locks and canals along the river, ships are always small in scale, with typically just under 200 guests. These are just a few of the reasons why river cruising is truly the most relaxing way to travel.

Registration Form CHÂTEAUX, RIVERS, AND WINE September 18-26, 2020 Return this registration form, along with your deposit check for $600 per person (to New England Church) and a copy of the front page of your passport to: Gary McCann New England Church 406 W. Galena Blvd Aurora IL 60506

______Name as printed exactly as it is on your passport: Birthdate (mm/dd/yyyy)

______Name as printed exactly as it is on your passport: Birthdate (mm/dd/yyyy)

______Address

______Phone

______Email

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

______Name and relationship to you ______Address ______Phone ______Email (OVER)

Registration Form Châteaux, Rivers, and Wine September 18-26, 2020

Cabin Category: Please circle your choice. AA: $6,975 A: $5,475 B: $5,275 C: $4,975 D: $4,775 E: $4,475 F: $4,375

Extensions: check if you are interested in a trip extension: ______Viking Pre-trip Extension: Loire Valley: (3 nights): $1,250 per person

______Viking Post-trip Extension: (circle if you are interested) Paris (3 nights) $1,000

______Exploring the Caves of Perigord (tentative pre-trip organized by Gary & Judy) Cost and details to be determined

Flight Upgrades: If you wish to upgrade your flight, please indicate: ______Premium Economy: add $800 per person ______Business Class: add $3,500 per person

Past Viking Traveler: (check if either applies to you) ______$200 if you have traveled with Viking within the past year. ______$100 if you have ever traveled with Viking

Do you have a voucher that you purchased on a previous cruise? Number(s): ______